Category: W

A condition caused by blood poisoning with meningococci, in which the tissues of the adrenal glands dié and haemorrhage [Described 1911 by Rupert Waterhouse (1873-1958), physician at Bath, UK; described 1918 by Carl Friderichsen (b. 1886), Danish physician]. A form of septicemia (blood poisoning) caused by meningococcal bacteria that causes hemorrhaging of the person’s adrenal…

A condition caused by dyspepsia, in which there is a burning feeling in the stomach and the mouth suddenly fills with acid saliva. A sudden filling of the mouth with regurgitated stomach acid. This often accompanies dyspepsia, particularly if there is nausea. Waterbrash, or pyrosis. A symptom of ‘indigestion’ when the mouth fills with tasteless…

A mattress made of a large heavy plastic bag filled with water, used to prevent bedsores. A bed with a flexible water-containing mattress. The surface of the bed adapts itself to the patient’s posture, which leads to greater comfort and fewer bedsores. A bed with a water-filled mattress can help prevent bed sores in patients…

A state where the water lost by the body, e.g. in urine or sweat, is made up by water absorbed from food and drink. The ratio between the water absorbed by the body and that which is excreted. The water intake is equal to the water loss. For a description of the control of water…

A disease which causes severe loss of weight or reduction in size of an organ.  

A substance which is not needed in the body and is excreted in urine or faeces.  

To become thinner.  

Referring to material or matter which is useless.  

A thorough cleaning with a liquid, especially water. The lowering of the concentration of a substance from a solution, or from the human body, by withholding the substance and allowing it to be lost, metabolized, or excreted.  

A bowl in a kitchen or bathroom where you can wash your hands.